It was written almost a century ago, but the advice within its pages is timeless. Dale Carnegie, in his groundbreaking book, How to Win Friends and Influence People, said, “Be hearty in your approbation and lavish in your praise.” Appreciation expressed sincerely and often goes a long way in your interaction with your employees, co-workers, clients, and personal relationships. All these decades since Carnegie penned that advice, people are still people. Their individual felt needs are basically the same, including the need to feel appreciated. And people who feel appreciated by you will often be more open to your ideas and influence.
Carnegie’s book, which was one of the few books I’ve ever read more than once, had a great impact on how I try to interact with people. Few books I’ve ever read have contained more practical advice that has stuck with me for decades than this one. Here are a few of the other timeless, valuable nuggets Carnegie offered:
“It isn’t what you have or who you are or where you are or what you are doing that makes you happy. It’s what you think about it.”
“You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.”
“Develop success from failures. Discouragement and failure are two of the surest stepping stones to success.”
“Any fool can criticize, complain, and condemn—and most fools do. But it takes character and self-control to be understanding and forgiving.”
“When we hate our enemies, we are giving them power over us: power over our sleep, our appetites, our blood pressure, our health, and our happiness.”
“Talk to someone about themselves and they’ll listen for hours.”
If you haven’t read Carnegie’s book, grab a copy and soak in the wisdom. It’s one of the best books ever written on constructing successful relationships.
Rod Robison is a mentalist, magician, author and speaker who helps companies and organizations throughout Arizona and beyond create unforgettable events for their employees and clients. Visit www.TucsonMentalist.com Books available at www.TucsonMagician.com/books
